Tinubu reaffirms commitment to Buhari’s legacy, says economy on path of recovery

President Bola Tinubu has restated his administration’s commitment to consolidating the legacies of former President Muhammadu Buhari, assuring allies that Nigeria is on a path of economic recovery and sustainable growth.

Speaking at a gathering of former governors and political associates, Tinubu expressed gratitude to Aminu Masari, former governor of Katsina state, Tanko Al-Makura, former governor of Nasarawa state, Dikko Radda, governor of Katsina, and other elder statesmen for their loyalty to the progressive cause.

Reflecting on the early days of the political alliance that birthed the ruling party, the president recalled the debates that shaped its identity, including the adoption of the broom as symbol.

“You brought back the memory of the beginning of the alliance. We disagreed to agree. We even argued on symbol… He [Buhari] insisted on parliament, I insisted on broom. He was so stubborn,” Tinubu said.

On governance, Tinubu highlighted recent economic strides, noting that his administration had stabilised the naira and restored credibility to the foreign exchange market.

“When I took over, it was N1,900 to a dollar. It’s N1,450 now. Nobody is trading pieces of paper for exchange rate anymore,” he said.

”You don’t have to know a CBN governor to transact; all you need to do is export, import, and create jobs.”

The president added that Nigeria met its annual revenue target earlier than expected, hitting the milestone in August.

He stressed that the country is no longer borrowing to fund its budget.

“Non-oil revenue is growing, and that gives us confidence to move forward without fear,” he said.

On food security, Tinubu announced a nationwide mechanisation programme with centres and training hubs to boost agricultural productivity.

“Food sovereignty is our backbone. If we remove hunger, we have defeated poverty,” he said.

He also acknowledged the patience of his supporters who have awaited appointments, assuring them that ambassadorial and other positions would be filled in due course.

Tinubu promised to build a “Buhari House” to immortalise the former president, describing it as a “house of joy and prosperity”.

Urging his allies to remain firm despite political pressures, Tinubu said: “Don’t let anybody threaten you with uncertainty. We are certain we are going to succeed.

“Part of what we inherited from Buhari was his honesty, transparency, and justice. You won’t have anything less than that.”